Mumbai Don-Turned-Neta Arun Gawli Walks Free After 17 Years, Longs for Family Life

Notorious underworld don-turned-politician Arun Gawli, popularly known as ‘Daddy,’ was released from Nagpur Central Prison on Wednesday after being granted bail by the Supreme Court. The 76-year-old, who had been convicted in 2012 under MCOCA for the murder of Shiv Sena corporator Kamlakar Jamsandekar, spent more than 17 years in prison, including nine-and-a-half years in Nagpur. His bail was granted on August 28 considering his age and the years he had already served.

Upon his release, Gawli reportedly told prison officials that his only desire now is to reconnect with his children and grandchildren, lamenting the years lost behind bars. Once feared as the ruler of Dagdi Chawl in Byculla, Gawli now expressed a softer side, reflecting regret and longing for a quiet family life.

The release was marked by high drama, with Nagpur Police, ATS, and intelligence officials ensuring tight security amid lingering threats from Dawood Ibrahim’s D-Company. Gawli was escorted discreetly to Nagpur airport to board an early flight to Mumbai.

Inside prison, Gawli was known for his discipline and even earned praise for pursuing Gandhian philosophy, scoring 74/80 in an exam in 2018. He was also granted multiple paroles without incident. His transformation into a model prisoner stood in contrast to his violent past.

A former MLA from Chinchpokli, Gawli once transitioned into politics through his Akhil Bharatiya Sena. Now, speculation arises whether he will attempt a political comeback or settle into the quiet life he claims to desire. With security threats persisting, his homecoming is anything but ordinary. For Mumbai, Gawli’s release marks the return of a controversial figure whose life oscillates between crime, politics, and the possibility of redemption.